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The Arts Intel Report

Africa's Fashion Diaspora

227 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001, USA

“The concept that Black peoples build and share common cultural networks—despite differences in geography, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, language, and religion—is an enduring idea,” writes Elizabeth Way, an associate curator of costume at The Museum at FIT. For centuries, separated by land and sea, people of the African and Black diaspora have developed unique and diverse traditions and art forms, rooted in a place of origin yet celebrating unity within other cultures. Curated by Way, “Africa’s Fashion Diaspora” looks at how fashion by Black designers has created many bridges that connect Black peoples across the globe. Here is a rich heritage of history and visual culture, illustrated by 60 ensembles and accessories. —Isabella Carter

Photo: © The Museum at FIT